Sleep is one of our most basic needs. The phrase ‘beauty sleep’ shouldn’t be disregarded.
However, as we age, we tend to get less and less sleep, even though our need for it changes very little.
Particularly, for women over 50 getting enough sleep can be a challenge.
As you approach menopause, declining oestrogen and progesterone can cause spikes in body temperature as these hormones control your temperature. Their decline may see your body temperature soar and a hot flush occur leaving you sweaty and awake for hours.
Hormonal shifts may cause changes in mood which affect your sleep. Another hormone, cortisol steadily increases after 40, which may trigger insomnia.
Getting enough sleep is imperative to every part of our health and well-being. But what if sleep eludes you?
We recommend creating a bedtime routine
Here are some of our favourite bedtime hacks:
Just the same as it is for children. A series of steps or activities will help you relax and prepare for sleep.
Keep it consistent and around the same time each night. Your bedtime routine will occupy the best part of the recommended hour with no phone, no computer and no television.
A night-time skin cleansing routine is a great place to start. What’s more the key ingredients in your chosen products will work hard while you sleep.
- Our Essential Miracle Cleansing Jelly removes all traces of make-up. You can also use it as a mask on cleansed skin when you relax in your bath.
- We love Nurturing Night Balm, an overnight treatment for dry and very dry skin. A beautiful balm to oil consistency which allows you to spend some time massaging your skin to great health.
- Or our Repairing Nourishing Mask is the perfect sleep mask. Apply 10 minutes before bed and the creamy formula sinks into your skin. A quick rinse in the morning reveals soft, silky, supple looking skin.
Take a relaxing bath, with essential oils known for their calming sleep-inducing properties. Our favourites are lavender and rose. Ten minutes in the warm water is all you need. Nourish and hydrate your body after your bath with our Nourishing Hydrating Balm. Other than helping your skin feel supple and comfortable. Self-massage is self-care, it’s relaxing and gives you time to reflect on your day.
Prepare your bedroom, keep it well ventilated and an electronic device free zone. Create ambient lighting with lamps, rather than the main ceiling light. Keep a towel close by in case you do wake up in a sweat. Grab a book to read or switch on some soothing music. Finally, spritz your bedding with our Signature Scent Tranquility Linen & Home Mist. The refreshing citrus notes are perfectly blended with a familiar, clean herbal burst of lavender.
Prepare your clothes for tomorrow. Spend time considering which clothes make you look good and feel great. Lay them out with your accessories and shoes. It’s one less hassle in the morning and you’re guaranteed to look fabulous every day. It may also encourage you to wear more than the same 20% of your wardrobe. Think about it… is this true?
Now your bed will be calling. Read a couple of pages and nod off into a peaceful sleep. Awake refreshed and feeling wonderful.